FAQ

ABOUT

Cars For Hope is a movement of passionate automotive enthusiasts who are dedicated to driving hope towards those suffering from mental illness and aim to raise awareness within the automotive community of the issues surrounding mental health.

Via our website, social media network and at automotive-based events, Cars For Hope aims to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness including depression, anxiety and self-injury.

We use our stickers as a means of spreading the word about our cause and encourage supporters to wear one proudly on their vehicles to let others know that they care.

We created our #DRIVINGFORHOPE campaign to allow supporters to showcase their Cars For Hope sticker on their vehicle and Stories campaign to allow those who have experienced mental illness directly or indirectly to show current sufferers that they are not alone and that there is hope.

We also provide information to inform and educate the community about mental health. As well as this are resources to seek support for those currently facing a mental illness. These can be found on our Facts and Find Help pages.

As Cars For Hope is a non-profit organisation at no time are any funds allocated to the members of or contributors to the organisation – all members and contributors do so voluntarily. All money raised from events and the sale of merchandise is used to maintain the website, initiate new campaigns and further the organisation.

GETTING INVOLVED

We are always seeking contributors to our website. If you or someone you know has a story of inspiration or has experienced the challenges and triumphs associated with mental illness, we would love to hear about it. Please visit the Stories page for more information on our Stories campaign. Alternatively, contact us if you have a more in-depth experience of mental illness you would like to share.

We are also looking for volunteers who are willing to help progress Cars For Hope as an organisation. If you would like to help by manning a stand at an event, or simply have a skill to offer please contact us.

Cars For Hope aims to raise awareness of mental illness in the automotive community. You can show your support and help to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness by purchasing a sticker and wearing it on your vehicle. Read more about what the sticker means to us here.

Cars For Hope does occasionally accept posts from guest writers on a case-by-case basis. If you are interested, please email info@carsforhope.com.au with more information and, if possible, writing samples.

GETTING HELP

Cars For Hope does not offer direct support to people wishing to seek help as we are not trained health professionals. We exist as a bridge for those who are wishing to seek help by providing information and resources which can be found on our Find Help page.

If you think a family member or close friend has depression or anxiety, first try talking to them about it in a supportive manner. You could also suggest that they consult their general practitioner or mental health professional, or even offer to take them to see one.

Sometimes a person suffering from a mood disorder may not want to seek help. In these circumstances, explain that you are concerned about them and why, and perhaps provide them with some information – such as a pamphlet from a mental health organisation or other resources from our Find Help page – that you think might be relevant. You could also offer to assist them to seek professional help. This might take the form of finding someone with whom the individual feels comfortable talking, making an appointment for them on their behalf, taking them to the appointment on the day, and, if appropriate, accompanying them during the assessment interview.

Remember, if you are faced with a serious emergency situation, contact your local emergency services immediately.